The Sea of Life
Modern and Contemporary Art from The Kingdom of Bahrain
November 29, 2023 - March 26, 2024
Co-curated by Hayfa Aljishi and Lyne Sneige
Sponsored by The National Arts Council - Kingdom of Bahrain and the RAK Art Foundation
The Sea of Life features the works of fourteen artists spanning different art forms and generations, exploring their connection to their natural and built environment and the symbolism of water in their lives. The title plays on the concept of ‘The Tree of Life,’ a widespread symbol of life among some cultures and religions. On Bahrain Island, water has been this lifeforce. Both the sea and the island’s fresh water springs are linked to its prosperity and regarded as a precious commodity to cherish and preserve, creating a powerful connection between the people of Bahrain and their natural environment.
Book appointment to visit in person
Photo: Ebrahim Bu Saad, The Lovers (1999), 79 x 59" Courtesy of the RAK Art Foundation
Visit the MEI Art Gallery
[Note: The Gallery will be closed beginning Dec. 21 and will reopen January 4, 2024]
The MEI Art Gallery is open to the public weekdays from 10am to 5pm (closed for federal holidays). Visitors are encouraged to register for a timed visit at the link below, but walk-ins are also welcome.
Opening Art Talk - The Sea of Life: Modern and Contemporary Art from The Kingdom of Bahrain
Co-curator and MEI Arts and Culture Center Director Lyne Sneige speaks with artists Mariam AlNoaimi, Ghada Khunji, and Jamal AlYousif about their work in MEI's latest gallery exhibition "The Sea of Life: Modern and Contemporary Art from The Kingdom of Bahrain."
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Tribe Photo Magazine
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Pagination
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Event Recap
The Middle East Institute’s Arts and Culture Center and The Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation in partnership with the Cheuse Center for International Writers at George Mason University were proud to present a two-day, virtual literature festival featuring writers and poets from the Middle East. Panels explored the works and experiences of leading and emerging Arab authors and poets and the challenges of publishing and translating works from the Middle East.
International Arts Advisory Committee
Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi
Saleh Barakat
Touria El Glaoui
Leila Heller
Rose Issa
Adila Laïdi-Hanieh
Salwa Mikdadi
Venetia Porter